Glen Este High School senior Rebecca Stout found a way to honor her mother who died from lupus several years ago. As vice president of the school’s Green Team, Stout suggested a recent charity drive for the Lupus Foundation.

Stout’s mother, Lucia, died during Stout's freshman year. To help out her family, Stout began taking care of her sister, Libby, and also tried to serve as a role model.

“I try and show her even though we have been through (a lot), you can accomplish anything you set your mind to,” Stout said.

In addition to responsibilities at home, Stout, who lives in Batavia, remained active in school activities.

She is involved with the Green Team, a volunteer group with an environmental focus. The group collects aluminum and other recyclables for money which is then donated to a local charity.

Stout is also active on the school’s swim team and was recently honored with a “110% Award” for her initiative and enthusiasm.

She is also treasurer for the school’s Choir Council, which helps organize events for the Glen Este Choir.

She is 80th in her class of more than 300 students and has a grade point average of 3.5.

Stout said when facing adversity, it is important to have a positive spirit. “It feels better over time, and you’ll be happy you kept pushing and did the right thing,” she said.

She will attend Miami University this fall. She plans to major in biomedical engineering and premed.

About ‘Grade A Graduates’
It is now an end-of-school-year tradition for the Community Press, and every year the stories continue to inspire, and sometimes amuse.

This is our salute to members of the Class of 2017 – those graduating seniors with a unique story to tell. We call them our Grade A Graduates.